Meet the team behind your financial journey

Get to know the experienced professionals dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals.
Experienced Professionals with a Purpose
Driven by Integrity and Insight
W A Smith Financial Group Team

Meet Bill Smith, Founder and CEO

bill smith, c e o and founder and w a smith financial group

Introduction

As CEO, Bill Smith leads W.A. Smith Financial Group with a clear vision for innovation, growth, and client success. His focus on continuous improvement ensures the firm adapts to meet evolving client needs, staying ahead in an ever-changing financial landscape.

Bill is passionate about developing strong leaders within the company, empowering advisors to deliver personalized, high-quality service. Committed to preserving a client-first culture, he fosters trust and integrity at every level, ensuring each client interaction reflects the firm’s core values.
Read Bill's Story

One team with one Vision

to be the last advisor you ever need

Sola

Chief Comfort Officer

Luna

Assistant Comfort Officer

Evolving with You, Rooted in Our Values

Our shared journey, from humble beginnings to a team united in its commitment to your financial well-being.

Retirement Matters Radio Logo
Retirement Matters Radio is launched

April 2007

Great Lakes Retirement Logo
Great Lakes Retirement Inc. is started by Bill Smith

April 2008

March 2011

w a smith financial group logo
Great Lakes Retirement Inc. rebrands to W.A. Smith Financial Group

January 2015

retirement solutions logo
TV Show "Retirement Solutions with Bill Smith" launches

September 2019

Sheffield Village, Ohio office is built

April 2020

Retirement Tune Up Book Cover
"Retirement Tune-Up: Plan Well and Prosper in Retirement" book is published

January 2022

Ascend360 Planning Process is trademarked
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June 2024

Sarasota Florida Office
W.A. Smith Financial Group expands operations to Sarasota, Florida

Bill Smith's Story

Bill Smith in Conference RoomBill Smith and Erica Smith

Introduction

Since 1995, William A. Smith, founder and CEO of W.A. Smith Financial Group and chief strategist of Great Lakes Retirement, Inc., has been dedicated to helping clients achieve financial security.

With nearly three decades of experience, Bill brings a client-centered approach and commitment to innovation, earning him a reputation as a trusted industry leader.

Professional Background

William A. Smith, founder and CEO of W.A. Smith Financial Group and chief strategist of Great Lakes Retirement, Inc., has been dedicated to helping clients achieve financial security since 1995. With nearly three decades of experience, Bill brings a client-centered approach to every aspect of the company.
Innovating for Client Success: Bill’s focus on growth and innovation ensures that W.A. Smith Financial Group continuously adapts to meet evolving client needs.
Mentoring Leaders for Exceptional Service: Bill develops strong leaders within the company, empowering every advisor to deliver a high-quality, personalized experience.
Preserving a Client-First Culture: Committed to core values, Bill fosters a culture of trust and integrity, ensuring every client interaction reflects these principles.

Early Life and Entrepreneurship

Bill grew up in Wooster, Ohio. He learned about running businesses from his family, especially his mom and grandpa.

When Bill was just 15 years old, he started a business with his brother. They sold pumpkins, Halloween decorations, trampolines, and playsets for kids.

This early experience taught him the values that shape his approach at W.A. Smith Financial Group. Bill remains dedicated to building a company rooted in trust, innovation, and a commitment to helping families secure a meaningful financial future.

Education and Background

At the University of Akron, Bill earned a degree in business management, developing his abilities in business operations and administration.

After finishing school, Bill entered the financial services industry in 1995. Throughout his career, he has remained dedicated to continuously learning and coming up with new, creative solutions.

Achievements and Recognition

In 2023, Inc. Magazine named W.A. Smith Financial Group one of the 5000 fastest-growing businesses in the country
in 2024, Crain's Cleveland Business said W.A. Smith Financial Group was growing faster than other large financial companies in Cleveland
"Largest Wealth Financial Firms" by Crain's Cleveland Business (2024) – This rating was awarded based on 2024 data and rankings, with placement obtained through both qualification and paid participation. "One of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies" by INC. 5000 (2023) – This recognition was given based on 2023 growth data for private companies, with placement secured through qualification and paid participation.

See what our clients say

We're proud of the relationships we build with our clients and the results we achieve together. Read their stories and discover why they trust us with their financial futures. We invite you to join our community of empowered individuals.

Displayed testimonials were provided by current clients. No compensation of any kind was provided for these testimonials.

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John Carter

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Sophie Moore

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Matt Cannon

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Andy Smith

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John Carter

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

Sophie Moore

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

Matt Cannon

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

Andy Smith

"Excellent very helpful and have chose wise decisions with finances as well as retirement planning"

Scott A. | Client Since 2017

Administrative nurse O'Neill health care
"Local company - speaking with a local rep face-to-face is always a good asset"

Martin L. | Client Since 2023

General Manager, Try Auto Sales-All Family of companies
"Was a very professional experience. Feel comfortable with the Group handling my resources, as I want."

Paul G. | Client Since 2023

Former Owner of insurance agency
"Very good and helpful. They take the time to explain your portfolio so you understand it. Would recomend highly them."

Theresa H. | Client Since 2015

Former Dental assistant for Dr. Myers and Dr. Nicely
"It's been great. Andrew and his team are always ready to help me with any questions or needs. That definitely reduced my anxiety regarding retirement."

Jill G. | Client Since 2018

Former Director of MIS
"I am very pleased at the ease, professionalism, customer service, and friendliness. I feel confident with W.A. Smith I will reach my retirement goals."

Denette C. | Client Since 2023

Executive Admin., Parker Hannifin
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